What are the symptoms of coronavirus?

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The symptoms of coronavirus include sore throat, runny nose, coughs and fevers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more severe cases of coronavirus infection can also cause lower-respiratory tract illnesses such as pneumonia. Middle East respiratory syndrome is caused by a coronavirus and results in diarrhea, shortness of breath, coughing and fever.

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Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus is a more serious infection, and the World Health Organization reports that the source of the coronavirus is not known. The CDC notes that most people get coronavirus at some time in their life and that many coronaviruses infect animals. Human coronaviruses are spread by coughing or sneezing and personal contact. MedlinePlus recommends that people wash their hands thoroughly, avoid touching their face and avoid contact with sick people because there is no vaccine for coronavirus infection.

Coronavirus infection is treated the same way as a common cold. Getting rest, keeping hydrated and taking medications for sore throat and fever and using a humidifier or steam shower for sore throat relief can help. According to WebMD, it is not necessary to get lab tests because coronavirus is usually not serious and the symptoms, if treated, can go away in a few days.